Knauf Insulation is investing €5m into its rock mineral wool plant in Queensferry, increasing the plant’s capacity and capabilities to meet customer needs.

The upgrades will deliver thermal and mechanical improvements, along with an increased portfolio of insulation solutions. Furthermore, the investment continues the evolution of Knauf Insulation’s no added formaldehyde, ECOSE® Technology binder.

The increased production of high-density products will reinforce the company’s strategy to supply the optimal product for every application, across its glass and rock mineral wool product ranges.

John Sinfield, managing director at Knauf Insulation Northern Europe, said: “We are especially pleased to announce this investment at Queensferry, given the uncertainty many other businesses and investors currently face. That uncertainty applies to wider concerns around the impact of Brexit on economic activity, but also to key sectors we service such as the construction industry, UK energy and energy efficiency businesses.

“This decision demonstrates that a drive on energy efficiency will deliver greater energy security, increased UK economic competiveness and help address environmental commitments. We would hope the new government, and especially the new Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, considers these outcomes when exploring what its new strategy is to be.

“What’s more, our manufacturing capability must be underpinned by a strong strategy that enables all of our mineral wool plants to capture every opportunity open to them – be they existing or new markets. The shareholders’ continuing desire to invest in the UK gives me great confidence. We must be customer focused and that’s exactly how this investment has been secured; I very much look forward to seeing the benefits it will bring to them.”

Mark Jolliffe, plant manager at Queensferry, added: “This is a fantastic opportunity for our customers and staff. The upgrades are being implemented towards the end of the year and so to accommodate our customers’ needs during the downtime, we have already increased production to build up our stock.”

Knauf Insulation has a strong investment in the UK; since acquiring sole ownership of the business in 2002 it has so far invested over £150m across its UK plants.